Pilates ProWorks joins Oakland's growing Pilates scene

OAKLAND -- Pilates, the popular core-strengthening workout, is making a splash among Oakland fitness enthusiasts.

The latest in a growing number of Pilates studios around Lake Merritt and North Oakland is Pilates ProWorks, which will hold a grand opening on Jan. 18. The studio offers a more amped-up approach to Pilates, turning the often slow-paced and sweat-free exercise into a high-energy workout. It also offers TRX classes, barre workouts and some spa-like features including a juice bar and detox cleansing plans.

Pilates has long been popular in high-income areas and urban centers such as San Francisco, but the relatively high price of classes at private studios have made the workout less of a fad in lower-income areas. Oakland, though, has seen an influx of studios in recent years.

One month memberships for unlimited Pilates ProWorks classes start at $125. Pilates ProWorks has four Bay Area locations. The Oakland studio is at 3303 Lakeshore Ave.